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President of the Republic of Kenya, William Samoei Ruto, said that Africa’s natural resources and technological diversity place it at the forefront of leading global climate solutions. This was stated during his speech at the COP29 Global Climate Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, in a message delivered by the Cabinet Secretary for Government Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi.
President Ruto emphasized that Africa’s role in the global climate agenda is not passive, but rather leadership. He added, “Africa is not just a participant in global climate talks; it is a leader that must create solutions based on its needs, challenges, and resources.”
He pointed out that Africa’s green wealth, from forests to biodiversity, is an essential part of the global climate equation, providing critical environmental services and vast economic potential.
The discussions also focused on recalibrating economic measures to reflect the intrinsic value of Africa’s natural capital.
The Kenyan delegation, including Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, along with leaders from other African nations, called for more investment in Africa’s green sector and natural resources, ensuring that economic growth aligns with climate resilience.
Ruto’s speech, delivered alongside Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso, also highlighted Africa’s growing leadership in the global climate dialogue.
With the participation of prominent figures such as Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, the meetings emphasized Africa’s capacity to lead climate solutions while advancing economic prosperity for its people The two-day World Leaders Climate Ambition Summit concluded on Wednesday with significant momentum, as more than 80 heads of state and world leaders making speeches, showing progress, and announcing new commitments on climate action. Brazil launched its new national climate action plan, while France, Kenya, and Barbados launched the Coalition for Solidarity Levies. The Global Climate Action High-Level Event opened the two-week Global Climate Action Agenda at the 2024 UN Climate Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, dubbed the “Finance COP”. Andorra, Guyana, Panama, Japan, Spain, Turkey, Kazakhstan, the Netherlands, and Singapore submitted their Biennial Transparency Reports under the Enhanced Transparency Framework. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered remarks to the High Ambition Coalition meeting and the Small Island Developing States Summit.